3 Unfair Dog Stereotypes

Appearances can be deceiving.

Don’t judge a book by its cover.

You’ve heard the quotes above before. We’re taught: it’s what’s on the inside that counts. Unfortunately, not all of us live by that last one. We make snap judgments before we to full picture. Phew! That’s a lot of commonly used expressions jammed into one introduction!

These judgments even target the most innocent of creatures: puppies! How is it we can make these harsh verdicts about precious little puppers with pink noses and spotted fur? We base our pet adoption decisions on the stereotypes we’ve heard. Pit Bulls are supposedly vicious; Dachshunds are ankle biters. Sure, in some instances there has been an ankle biter of the wiener dog, but haven’t we all had our “ruff” days?

And more to the point, there are no bad dogs, only bad owners!

With that in mind, let’s take a look at three dog breeds that have proven their stereotypes wrong!

The Pit Bull

Stereotype: Aggressive, Vicious

The Pit Bull sadly has long been classified as an aggressive and vicious breed because of the cruelty of humans. Associated with dog fighting, people assume that given the chance, a Pit Bull will attack and kill another dog.

Pit Bull Rescue Central (PBRC) has worked to educate the general public on the true demeanor of the Pit Bull: a loving and sweet companion animal! PBRC tells would-be Pit Bull owners that Pit Bulls “have been bred for general human companionship…[From] the very beginning, Pit Bulls have been used as farm dogs, family dogs, military mascots and all-purpose companions. In England, the [Pit Bull] is affectionately known as ‘The Nanny Dog’ or ‘The Children’s Nursemaid’ because of their placid and nurturing demeanor toward children.”

Pit Bulls have been treated unfairly, but you can help. Adopt a Pit Bull and show the world what excellent canine companions they are when you’re at the dog park in matching dog jerseys displaying your favorite sports team’s logo!

The Rottweiler

Stereotype: Aggressive, Unintelligent

Like Pit Bulls, Rottweilers have commonly been associated with aggression and hostility. Because the breed is often used in the guardianship capacity, it’s thought that’s all they’re good for. Rottweilers were bred to be working dogs. “Known to be a descendant of Roman drover dogs who helped herd cattle when the Romans invaded Europe,” Rottweilers are working dogs.

The breed is loyal and protective of their handlers but are equally social and friendly with other dogs and people.  All the Rottweiler wants is an owner who will give them a belly rub at the end of the day. Isn’t that what we all want: just a little recognition for doing a good job?

The Poodle

Stereotype: Fussy, Delicate

How many times have you made a judgment about something that ended up being completely wrong? Don’t beat yourself up too much over it; we’ve all done it. When we don’t know better, we make judgments based on other experiences we’ve had. It’s once you learn about what’s really going on that you need to do and be better. This applies to dog ownership too.

When comparing breeds, you’ve likely come upon webpages dedicated to the poodle—not all of them positive. Often portrayed as well-manicured and coiffed, the poodle is immediately likened to a dandy. Remember: the poodle has no say in how their fur is cut, it’s their owner who makes the appointments with the dog groomer.

Bred to be a show dog, poodles generally prefer quiet and peaceful surroundings. Intelligent and hardworking, the poodle works well in a highly-structured environment.

Looking to grow your family by one canine? Don’t judge by the breed, look into your heart!